Bixa orellana (Annatto)
AKA “Annatto
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Bixa orellana (Annatto)
Synthetic · Antioxidant · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Antioxidant
Emollient
Synthetic
Clean
Safety Ratings: EWG: 1/10 (Low Hazard)
CAS #
89957-43-7
See origin →
Functions
Antioxidant
Fights free radicals — the unstable molecules from UV, pollution, and stress that break down collagen and cause premature aging.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Softens & Smooths
Wound Healing
Fights Bacteria
Smooths and softens skin
Fights free radical damage
Traditional Use
Used for centuries by indigenous Amazonian and Caribbean cultures as both a food coloring and body paint. Traditionally applied to skin for sun protection and insect repellent properties, and later adopted in European cosmetics as a natural colorant.
Skin Types
all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
1
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
ewg-1
pregnancy-nursing-safe
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: Kew POWO · CosIng · EWG · CIR